What is different in this new phase of the programme?
Unprecedented support: The new Civil Society Fund will fund European civil society organisations with over 300 million EUR. This is an increase of more than 50% compared to the previous fund.
Support for an informed public debate: Media and public debate face increasing challenges that threaten the core of European democracies. The fund will step up support for information integrity, media pluralism, and media literacy.
From social inclusion to social justice: The existing support for minorities and people in marginalized situations will prioritize strengthening their civic engagement and non-discrimination.
Renewed commitment for the rights of women and LGBTIQ+ people: Building on the strong support for gender equality in the previous fund, the main areas supported by the new fund include now the rights of LGBTIQ+ people as well as women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights.
New areas climate action and a just green transition: The EEA and Norway Grants have been a long-term supporter of civil society working on environmental protection and climate change. This support will be continued with a slight shift towards climate action and a just green transition.
Resilience in an uncertain environment: Against the background of narrowing space for civil society, civil society organisations will be able to rely on funding for making their organisations more resilient. Organisational grants will help them to become more stable and to adapt to changing circumstances.
More support for organisational development: The fund will further expand the support to organisations for developing themselves and building their capacities. A minimum of 20 % of the funding is reserved for this purpose.
More transnational cooperation: 5% of the funding will be set aside for a fund for transnational learning and initiatives.
New support related to Ukraine: A part of the funding will be used to help civil society organisations in the Beneficiary States to address the ramifications of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Lower administrative burden: Many civil society organisations struggle with the demands of applying and reporting for funding. The new fund will have less and clearer requirements, as well as simplified reports on the spending and results of an initiative.